Society is constantly evolving, and so are the rules of modern etiquette. Many old conventions that were once seen as a necessity are out, and new standards are born every day. One of the ways to stay on top of today's social graces is to invest in a few etiquette books from experts who have a firm pulse on the changing rules of society.
Some may believe the rules of etiquette to be pretentious or dated, but these guidebooks provide a solid foundation to help you feel more confident and successful in your own interactions. The wealth of knowledge found in these works allows readers to garner more awareness of those around them and better their own relationships. Plus, many well-known authors and experts, such as the Emily Post Institute and Miss Manners, are constantly updating their cult-classic guides to be more inclusive and address current topics such as tech etiquette and even online dating.
Below, we selected our picks for the best etiquette books to buy. Whether you want to brush up on your own manners or seek guidance on how to handle difficult conversations with family, you likely find the answers to all your questions in one of these spectacular reads.
Emily Post has remained a valuable source of social interaction and etiquette for more than 100 years. Lizzie Post and Daniel Post Senning, the great-great-grandchildren of Emily Post, updated the institute's cult-favorite guide for modern living, providing lessons on everything from proper table manners to navigating AI.
Tastemakers Suzanne Pollack and Lee Manigault co-founded the Charleston Academy of Domestic Pursuits in 2012 as a way to help people build relationships through food, design, and style. The academy's charming handbook details how to entertain in a relaxed yet completely southern way. You'll also find recipes, from bubbly cocktails to brunch favorites, throughout the chapters to help inspire your own delectable menu.
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Myka Meier knows a thing or two about modern etiquette. The founder of Beaumont Etiquette trained under a former member of the late Queen Elizabeth II's household and even launched the Plaza Hotel's finishing program. Her debut book is packed with advice on how to polish your everyday life as well as how to impress at big events and gatherings.
Author Jennifer Scott takes a playful and approachable take on etiquette in this book geared for parents and their children. Each lesson is developed to teach kids proper manners and how to be a good global citizen. The guide is also filled with activities, learning games, and recipes designed to get the entire family involved.
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Unspoken Social Rules & Etiquette, (Un)common Sense, & How to Act (How to be More Likable and Charismatic)
Navigating life's intricacies and social situations can be tricky, to say the least, but author and life coach Patrick King is making it easier with his guidebook to modern etiquette. The book serves as a nice refresher on basic social rules and goes deeper into how to step out of your comfort zone in large gatherings and business settings.
It makes for an exceptional gift for the young adults in your life.
Judith Martin first made a name for herself in the 1980s with her witty column “Miss Manners.” The maven of etiquette's indispensable manual has been updated throughout the years to offer thoughtful yet playful advice on how to combat America's evolving culture and society.
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Whether it's in business or social settings, Dorothea Johnson wants you to feel confident about your interactions with others. Modern Manners addresses the do's and don'ts of 21st-century etiquette, laying the foundation for how to become a thoughtful leader. Plus, the book is also filled with witty commentary from Johnson's granddaughter, actress Liv Tyler.
I Never Thought of It That Way: How to Have Fearlessly Curious Conversations in Dangerously Divided Times
Journalist Mónica Guzmán pulls inspiration from her own experiences to inform I Never Thought of It That Way, a manual on how to navigate difficult conversations in the current age. Guzmán offers insight on how to ask analytical questions and engage in thoughtful conversation—even with those you may not agree with.
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England-based magazine The Gentlewoman takes on the topics of manners and womanhood in a curated collection of essays from their star-studded contributors. The coffee table book addresses everything from how to navigate events when attending alone to the controversial topic of regifting.
Peter Post takes a comical route to address topics pertaining to man and succeeding in life with this helpful guide. A perfect gift for the young men in your life, readers learn how to conduct themselves both in real life and on social media through valuable lessons and humor.
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Through colorful illustrations and clever advice, Mr. Boddington's Studio teaches readers how to charm others no matter the occasion. The adorable handbook makes a delightful housewarming or hostess gift.
There's no denying that navigating adulthood has its challenges—especially when you are a young adult. Sarah Solomon's clever handbook breaks down the realities of life through humorous commentary and honest guidance. Topics range from discovering proper etiquette for modern dating to navigating the current job market.
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Judith Martin dispels fake etiquette rules and guides readers through modern civility in her latest book. Minding Miss Manners also delves into the world of social media, looking at society's relationship with the different platforms.
This charming children's book follows young Emily and her friend Ethan through a day of adventures as they learn the importance of being polite to others. The book even goes into detail as to why everyone should be using the social graces in a fun and humorous way for kids.
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The Illustrated Histories of Everyday Behavior: Discover the True Stories Behind the 64 Most Popular Daily Rituals
Curious about where our modern rules of etiquette came from? This illustrated book explores the true stories behind our society's biggest social graces, from why we say thank you to wedding traditions.
Sarah DiMarco
Associate Editor
Sarah DiMarco (she/her) is the associate editor at VERANDA, where she manages the brand's social media and video strategy. She also writes and edits stories each month, covering topics such as design, architecture, art, gardens, travel, trends, wine, and spirits. Prior to joining VERANDA, she earned her Master's Degree in Magazine, Newspaper, and Online Journalism at Syracuse University. In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, jewelry making, and volunteering at the Desert Island Supply Co.